Research Scientist (Ni Lab)

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (VT); Blacksburg (VA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, VA invites applications for a Research Scientist to conduct independent and collaborative research on molecular, cellular, and circuit‑level analyses of thermosensory systems in insects. The role emphasizes publications and external presentations, with collaboration across lab members and external partners.

Qualified candidates will have a PhD in Neuroscience or related fields and strong experience in electrophysiology, imaging, and data analysis.

Qualifications

• PhD in Neuroscience, Biology, or related discipline.
• Experience in electrophysiology or calcium imaging and the associated analysis.
• Experience with a microscope such as confocal or two-photon scopes.
• Demonstrated research productivity through peer‑reviewed publications and/or preprints.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent and collaborative research on thermosensory systems across insect species.
• Contribute to peer‑reviewed publications and external presentations.
• Collaborate with lab members and external partners.
• Commit to a minimum of two years.

Skills

Independent work

Collaborative research

Publications & presentations

Research agility

Data analysis & interpretation

Education

Ph.D. in Neuroscience/ Biology or related discipline

Tools

Confocal / two-photon microscopy

Job description

Job Description

The research scientist will conduct independent and collaborative research on projects involving molecular, cellular, and circuit-level analysis of thermosensory systems across multiple insect species. The candidate is expected to contribute to peer-reviewed publications and external presentations, and to collaborate effectively with both laboratory members and external collaborators. The qualified candidate is expected to commit to a minimum of two years.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Biology, or a related discipline
• Experience in electrophysiology or calcium imaging and the associated analysis
• Experience using a microscope such as confocal or two-photon scopes
• Demonstrated research productivity through peer-reviewed publications and/or preprints
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience using Drosophila (fruit flies) as a research model
• Experience in molecular biology techniques
• Experience in computational data analysis and scientific programming (Python, R, MATLAB)
• Experience in connectome analysis
• Experience in molecular dynamics modeling

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

$65,000 -$75,000 (commensurate with experience)

Hours per week

40 hours - exempt position

Review Date

7/06/2026

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim(That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Natalie Langowsky at [e-mail] during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.